Everglades National Park Experiencing Very High Fire Danger

Everglades National Park Experiencing Very High Fire Danger Visitors Urged to Take Precautions

Homestead Florida: Superintendent Dan Kimball announced today that Everglades National Park Fire Management staff has elevated the potential for fire in the park to Very High due to extremely dry fuel conditions within the park. Human caused fires are the greatest threat. Park Management asks that all Park visitors be especially cautious with their activities including driving vehicles off improved roads, cigarette smoking and camp fires.This Very High fire danger means natural and cultural resources are at risk given a wildfire. Important cultural sites, animal habitat, and Pine tree stands, would be especially susceptible to catastrophic damage should a fire from any cause break out.

Weather forecasts currently show no rain in the short term and a high pressure system will remain stationary this weekend keeping the air dry with temperatures in the low 80’s and Relative Humidity’s in the mid 30’s. Strong easterly winds are expected. This combination of dried fuels and warm, dry, gusty winds present significant fire control issues. South Florida’s current historically severe drought conditions are exacerbating this threat. Park Fire Management has moved to seven day coverage and increased Engine patrols along the Eastern Park boundary, Park camp grounds, and high visitor use areas. Fire management is also making arrangements for additional aviation support to ensure visitor and resource safety.

If you see a wildfire, please report within the Park to Fire Dispatch at 305 242-7850 Or Main Park Dispatch at 305 242-7740. Outside the Park call 911 if there is an emergency.